Spring Break just got a lot sweeter for your little princess! Make it a royal weekend with “My Princess Moment” in Fort Worth.

Laying there on the table, looking up on the ceiling, I remember when I was told I was having a girl.

Visions of all things pink and princesses came flooding through my brain.

Since that day seven years ago, I’ve had time to adjust to all things sparkles, tea parties and seeing all things through pink-tinted glasses. So when I see anything princess I know it’s a must for mine.

My Princess Moment is a special event coming to Fort Worth this weekend, Friday, March 16 and Saturday, March 17.

My Princess Moment waves its magic wand to bring an awe-inspiring experience to Fort Worth, where magical moments make lifelong memories. Bring your little princess to meet her favorite princess while enjoying fun activities! The Grand Ballroom for special meet-and-greets, Royal Tea Party, a Party Dance Party and Princess Photo Session.

Afterward make a royal evening of it in Sundance Square which is just a few steps away with tons of restaurants and the beautiful water fountains!

Save 25% off a maximum of four General Admission or VIP tickets when you use the promo code MPM_PK25 here.

More about My Princess Moment. It’s a princess dream come true! General Admission access allows junior princesses a two-hour progressive experience from the ballroom, to a tea party, to one-on-one picture time with their favorite Princesses. A VIP Package is also available, which includes a salon experience with custom hair, makeup, a VIP Princess accessory and a free digital copy of their picture with the Princesses.

Online tickets are $39-$50 for general admission. VIP tickets are available online from $50-$109 are $50.00. Kids 12 months and younger do not require a ticket. Ticket prices increase at the door, so purchase in advance online and save!

Mom Tip: While there’s free valet, consider nearby parking so you don’t have to wait when you’re ready to leave!

To learn more about My Princess Moment, visit here. Get social with My Princess Moment on Facebook and Instagram with #MyPrincessMoment.

Staying close to home this spring break? Cirque Italia has rolled into DFW and is ready to take your idea of circus to a new level.

Thanks to Cirque Italia for this opportunity to attend opening night and this sponsored post.

The days of the traveling circus with elephants and tigers is now one for the history books.

I remember when I was a kid, you’d spot the colored fliers around town and soon see all the trucks come to town. Then only a few days later you’d spot the red and white tent and know the circus was here! On your special night, you could smell the the aroma of buttery popcorn while crunching on peanut shells as you walked through the vinyl tent. Once you were under the big top you’d have you might see elephants, tigers and acts that you’d never seen – and then share the evening the next day with all your friends about what you’d seen.

Fast-forward to my children’s experience to the circus. While it doesn’t look much look like mine, after our experience, I can share that the circus is definitely alive and well.

However, it now includes laser lights, robots, and much more! Just in time for spring break Cirque Italia made it to the Midcities in Hurst at Northeast Mall.

Not knowing exactly what to expect, I was thrilled there was still a big cobalt blue and white striped tent to let us know we has arrived at Cirque Italia. There’s something about a “big top” that does take a normal parking lot to a whole new experience – well that and the buttery popcorn that met us as we entered the tent. We quickly took our spots as the lights went down and the show began.

From a vignette of Steam Punk tricks to a laser robot show, there was something to keep your eye moving throughout the event. However, it was the acrobatic shows incorporating water fountains and tricks high in the air that are the scene stealers.

If you’re looking for something different to do this spring break, this is definitely an option, but it’s only here for a little while before it moves on.

Thanks to Cirque Italia for bringing something special to the MidCities and this sponsored post.

We have a lot happening during spring break – too bad it doesn’t include a vacation. But I don’t want the kids to miss out on doing something fun and hopefully different than any other time of the year. Things are definitely different with Cirque Italia – coming to North East Mall (go Midcities.) With its state-of-the-art technology and cool use of water, it should keep us all on the edge of our seat.

Keep reading through and I will share how you can get your children’s tickets FREE!

About the Show

What comes to mind when you hear the phrase “Aquatic Spectacular?” You can expect all these things and so much more from the brand new themed Cirque Italia production with its perfectly fitting new title. After six years of enhancements, a rigorous casting selection, and countless performances nationwide, this newest form of Cirque Italia’s innovative and unique “traveling circus” spectacular production is set to be its finest to date.

Aquatic Spectacular came to life all thanks to its imaginative creator Manuel Rebecchi, along with invaluable direction and production management by Chanté DeMoustes. Cirque Italia’s brand-new theme show is an artistic blend of human abilities, technology and the element of water. This one-of-a-kind production combines water fountains, jet-skis, pirates, and more in a fun filled atmosphere all ages are sure to enjoy.

Performers from all over the world have been brought together under the enchanted spiral of the white and blue big top. The merging of their astonishing skills with the poetic element of water has led to the creation of a truly unforgettable experience. Cirque Italia has managed to create a beautifully unique theatrical production by combining the gracefulness of the human body with the calming fluidity of water, along with bursts of power and excitement as well.

Aquatic Spectacular offers two hours of high-end entertainment. Beautiful aerialists dazzle and shimmer on a chandelier high above the ground, but they aren’t the only ones that will draw your eyes toward the sky. You can expect to see contortion in a bubble, a Venetian aerial duo, and even someone hula hooping while in the air. Don’t worry about getting your eyes checked, you aren’t seeing double; there are TWO lasermen. Duo jugglers, duo roller-skaters, the always breathtaking wheel of death…the list goes on and on. Let your imagination wander, because anything is possible in this new whimsical production.

One might be concerned that such a spectacular entertainment opportunity is out of his/her price range, but Cirque Italia is committed to bringing a Las Vegas quality production to your hometown at an affordable price. They also feature many special offers and promotions.

Event Info for Cirque Italia at Hurst

When: March 9-18

Where: North East Mall

At: 1101 Melbourne Rd, Hurst, TX 76053

Located: corner of NE Mall Blvd & Cheryl Ave. between Dillard’s and Best Buy in the parking lot

Under the grand White and Blue Tent:

March 9- Friday: 7:30pm

March 10- Saturday: 2:30pm, 5:30pm, & 8:30pm

March 11- Sunday: 2:30pm, 5:30pm, & 8:30pm

March 12- Monday: 7:30pm

March 15- Thursday: 7:30pm

March 16- Friday: 7:30pm

March 17- Saturday: 2:30pm, 5:30pm, & 8:30pm

March 18- Sunday: 2:30pm, 5:30pm, & 8:30pm

Box Office Hours

The box office opens on-site on Tuesday, the week of the show.

Non-show days: 10 am – 6 pm

On show days: 10 am – 9 pm

Tickets can be purchased now, starting at $10.00 through$40.00 depending on availability. You can purchase tickets through their website, at the door, and by phone at 941-704-8572.

FREE Child Admission

Cirque Italia offers one free child admission with every full priced paying adult ticket in levels 2 or 3, using the code in the image below.

This offer cannot be combined with any other offers, discounts or deals.

Get Social with Cirque Italia

Ready to ring in 2018? Say hello to another year with the entire family with these New Year’s Eve Events for the Family in DFW.

While your younger years may have had you seeking for the wildest ways to ring in the New Year, once you have kids, your plans normally keep you at home. However, these NYE events in DFW will give you the opportunity to say hello 2018 with fun activities for the whole family.

New Year’s Eve Events for the Family 2017

Happy Noon Year’s Eve – Dallas

Dallas Arboretum

Don’t want to have them stay up until midnight? Celebrate at the Rory Meyers Adventure Garden as they ring in Noon Year’s Eve! Enjoy learning science, making crafts and listening to fun music. Don’t’ miss the celebratory ball drop at noon!

Photo Credit: Dallas Arboretum

AT&T Streaming Lights at Reunion Tower – Dallas

300 Reunion Blvd. East
Watch in awe as the most iconic building in the Dallas skyline lights up with 360 degrees of fireworks at 11:59 p.m. to ring in the new year. They say the best viewing is from the west side of the Trinity, along the levees and Trinity Overlook Park or Trinity Groves. This is a perfect night out with the kids for a minimal cost. Get the details.

NYE 2018: A Celebration of the Centuries – Dallas

Medieval Times

Take your kids back in time to celebrate the coming new year Medieval style. Enjoy a four course feast during your two hour tournament along with tickets to the museum of torture, party favors, music and dancing plus a countdown to midnight. Get the details.

Photo Credit: Medieval Times

Out With a Bang Hike – Fort Worth

Fort Worth Nature Center and Refuge

Get away from the world and take the kids on a peaceful hike out into nature as a naturalist teaches you about habitats during the Fort Worth Nature Center and Refuge’s “Out with a Bang” hike happening from 1-2:30 p.m. Get the details.

Countdown to Noon – Frisco

Sci-Tech Discovery Center

If you are in the north Dallas area and your kids are intrigued by science countdown to Noon Year’s Eve with them at the Sci-Tech Discovery Center. Expect: science experiments, balloon twisters, face painting, explosive stage shows and the ball drop at noon! Get the details.

Photo Credit: SciTech Discovery Center Facebook

Turn Back Time, The Ball Drops at Nine – Plano

Legacy Church

In Plano, you can spend a family friendly evening from 6-9 p.m. at Legacy Church’s Turn Back Time. Enjoy a variety show, a dance group, dinner & dessert, kids crafts, a sparkling juice toast and a gift for every family. Then make it home way before all the revelers and get the kids into bed on time! Get the details.

Dave & Buster’s New Year’s Eve Family Event

Several locations

Take the kids to an event designed for families to hang and have fun together as they celebrate the new year. Visit from 5-8 p.m. Buy a package that includes a buffet, unlimited sodas and power cards for the games!

New Year’s Eve 2018 at Topgolf

Several locations

Spend the evening out with the older kids at Topgolf! You can reserve your own bay with unlimited game play from 9-1 a.m. and even enjoy a champagne toast (if you are over 21)! I highly recommend purchasing the package that includes the prime rib dinner buffet. Get the details.

(Photo: Topgolf)

Strikz Family Fun Party & NYE Bash

Several locations

Celebrate with your kids at one of the parties offered at Strikz. The Family Fun Party from 5-8 p.m. or the NYE Bash from 9-1 a.m. Either way, enjoy bowling, video games, laser tag, heavy hor d’oeuvres and unlimited soda! Get the details.

Celebrating a raise, an anniversary, or making a big impression, the way to get wined and dined in Dallas always leads to steak. There’s a lot of ’em, here are 5 not to miss!

When people come to Dallas one of the first questions they always ask is “where do I get a good steak?”

Followed by “where do I get a good margarita?” and “Where do I get good Mexican food (which of course leads to a big discussion on the difference between Mexican food and Tex-Mex.)

But a good steakhouse? We have tons of them to choose from.

And while many of them will get you a good steak, potato and salad, the distinction of a good steakhouse has a lot more to do with how good is the steak and even more so, how good is the service.

Funny enough, no matter when the economy is up or down, studies show, we still eat steak here in Dallas no matter what.

(Remember, “beef, it’s what’s for dinner.)

One other factor is how dressed you wanna get. Some of these you can get away in with a nice pair of jeans and collared shirt. However, a few of these you’ll need to throw out a little extra effort. And while you’re getting things out, make sure to make allocations for your budget because you’ll be paying some moolah to eat that steak. Thankfully, you can’t miss which ever one you choose. They’re all that good.

Besides, isn’t that part of the fun?

5 Best Dallas Steakhouses

Al Biernat’s

4217 Oak Lawn Ave, Dallas, TX 75219

You know that moment in the movies where the rich guy is called by name immediately when he walks into a restaurant and they place them in his “table?” That’s how everyone feels at Al Biernat’s. Anyone and everyone has been here and not necessarily for the steak, either. But the service is impeccable in a sophisticated, laid-back way that doesn’t seemed pushed and just at the right time. They have a way to make you feel like a celebrity (that’s because a lot of them also frequent the spot), but more so because you always feel special even on the busiest of Friday nights. A local legend within itself, don’t miss a chance to eat at (and possibly meet) Al Biernat.

Don’t worry, you’ll know him when you see him as he walks around to say hello and remember that your anniversary is coming up (even when you forgot.)

Pappas Bros. Steakhouse

10477 Lombardy Ln, Dallas, TX 75220

When people talk about having “that’ experience of having a staff watch your every move and anticipate your every need (even if you didn’t know you needed it), that’s Pappas Bros. Looking to make that big impression that you’ve hit the big time and can spring for the $200+ bottles of vino? That’s Pappas Bros. This menu is everything you expect it to be with shrimp cocktail, filet mignons and one of Dallas’ few food finds for foie gras. But don’t fill up on the first, second or even fourth course. With a beyond dessert menu, you at least need to make room for a bite (or four.)

III Forks

17776 Dallas Parkway Dallas, Texas 75287

When you see that moment a guy gets on his knee to ask a gal to marry him in an uber romantic eatery that’s exactly what it looks like when walk into III Forks. Except that small, exclusive restaurant is actually 14 different beautiful dining rooms within the 25,000 sq. ft. building. More than 900 people can be in dining at one time, but you’ll never feel like there’s more than you and your dining partner. Recipient of several Wine Spectator awards and any more, you can enjoy that Texas steak with a twist of French cuisine that makes it an unforgettable dinner experience.

Chamberlain’s Steak & Chop House

5330 Belt Line Rd, Dallas, TX 75254

It’s hard not to be bias about Chamberlain’s Steak and Chop House. When Chef Proprietor Richard Chamberlain isn’t saying hello to the everyone in the room at the steak house or grill (his other eatery in Addison), he’s on TV and in the community doing things. He has all the respect of the local chefs (I’ve seen many of them eating here on their day off), sports stars (they love it here) and certainly of the national ones too, appearing several times on Good Morning America and being named One of the Best Steakhouses in the Country by a little publication called Bon Appetit. And the man you see on camera, is the same one that you meet, but if possible, even nicer. He food is impeccable and all of his other chefs are too. Prime Rib is ridiculously good. The bisque is ridiculously good. You can’t go wrong unless you just don’t go. And go to Richard hi when you’re there.

Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar

N. The Legacy Tower, 7250 Dallas Pkwy, Plano, TX 75024

The youngest of the steakhouses on the list to join Dallas’ elite list, Fleming’s gives North Dallas another reason to stay close to home and everyone else to head northbound on Dallas Parkway. When the restaurant opened, everyone in town made the trek and it was well worth the traffic. With a bar scene that’s great for a Tuesday night in your flats or walk in with your fur and pearls and no one will flinch except to gesture hello and make you feel at home. A huge favorite of many guests are the small plates that are just the right portion size and just the right taste with a little bit of steak, seafood and a little bit of Asian flavor to boot. Being the new guy, the interiors are new and upscale and so is the technology with the iPad wine list and a smartphone valet claim.

(Photo Credit: Flemings)

Bob’s Steak & Chop House

Various locations in Dallas, Fort Worth & Grapevine

If you’re looking for going BIG, then Bob’s Steak & Chop House is where you’ll find it. Not only will you get that big piece of meat you’ve always wanted and dreamed of, but the trademark carrot (yes, just one) will get your table talking for hours. Really. But whatever you do, don’t forget to order the mushrooms! If you’re a fun guy (appreciate that little pun), then you’ll love the sides of mushrooms that I’ve made a stop to pick up a few times to just eat as a meal. Mind blowing. The menu is straight-forward, but it’s because why would you have a large menu if you know that things you make are so good that no one is going to order them anyway. Your expected dark room, white tablecloth, big red wine experience, you’ll be surprised when you walk out finally and see that you’ve spent three hours eating…and you’re still talking about how big that carrot was.

So where are you going for dinner?

Known as America’s Dream City, Arlington, Texas is also your winter wonderland for holiday magic during the holidays. Get your game plan for all things Christmas with these 10 Things to do in Arlington for the Holidays.

Read how you can win tickets to Six Flags Over Texas for Holiday in the Park!

Thanks to Visit Arlington for their partnership.

Looking for something to do to get you in the holiday spirit? Right in the middle of it all you’ll find Arlington, Texas. There’s always something to do in Arlington, but during the holidays it’s a hot spot fun for things to do for everyone in the family. Here are 10 things to do in Arlington for the holidays.

1. Holiday in the Park at Six Flags Over Texas

2201 Road to Six Flags

Now – January 7

If you’re looking for holiday thrills you’ll find them at Holiday in the Park at Six Flags over Texas. Discover a winter wonderland filled with holiday attractions including a snow hill, visits with Santa, sing-a-longs, and holiday shows. This year introduces the Merry Marketplace filled with holiday treats, shopping, and photo opportunities. Get the details.

2. Decorators Warehouse

3708 West Pioneer Pkwy

Open year round

The largest Christmas store in Texas, and one of the largest in the world, is located in Arlington. Walk through the 150 styles of pre-lit Christmas trees, dazzling light displays, oodles of ornaments, and even a dedicated ribbon room. Make it a day and make reservations to have lunch in the Rose Garden Tea Room located inside the store. Get the details.

3. Enchant Christmas

Globe Life Park Lot F

Now – December 31

Light up your Christmas season with a visit to Enchant and the world’s largest outdoor Christmas light maze. Enjoy ice skating, a holiday shopping market, delicious treats, and a visit with Santa during your visit. Picture perfect memories are around every corner. Get the details.

4. Santa’s Toy Factory at The Parks Mall

3811 South Cooper Street

Now – December 24

Santa’s Toy Factory is an interactive Santa experience where kids can put on their safety hat and “test” out the new toys at Santa’s Toy Factory before they get delivered on Christmas morning. After testing the toys, kids have the chance to digitally design their own toys. The Toy Factory experience wraps up with meeting Santa himself for photos. Get the details.

5. Christmaspectacular! at Arlington Music Hall

224 N Center St.

December 8 – December 10

It’s all your Christmas favorites all in one show! Christmaspectacular is an original musical adventures featuring singers, dancers, kick lines, special effects, a beautiful Nativity, and a visit from Santa. Matinee and evening showtimes are available this weekend only at Arlington Music Hall. Get the details.

6. Santa at Legal Draft

500 East Division St.

Saturday, December 9

Santa is coming to the taproom at Legal Draft! If you’re family Santa photos include your four-legged pups, this is the place to get photos. Bring your dogs, kiddos, or both, for pictures with Santa from 3 to 5pm. The Taproom will be open as normal. Get the details.

7. Arlington Holiday Lights Parade

100 W. Abram St.

Saturday, December 9

The Arlington Holiday Lights Parade is more than just a parade! Ran by an all volunteer committee, the festivities start at 2pm in Founders Plaza with music, food, and reindeer games. The parade begins at 6pm and concludes with the Mayor and Santa Claus lighting the spectacular 50-foot Christmas Tree. Following the Tree Lighting get pictures with Santa at the Levitt Pavilion and a movie screening of “Elf.” Get the details.

8. Symphony Arlington Holiday in Vienna

224 N Center St.

Thursday, December 14

Spend a holiday evening in Vienna thanks to Symphony Arlington and their 2017-2018 Season “Vienna, City of Music”. The December concert features their annual carol sing-along and lots of holiday favorites including Jingle Bells Forever by J.P. Sousa and Sleigh Ride by Anderson. Book your trip to Vienna Thursday December 14 at 7:30pm at the Arlington Music Hall. Get the details.

PC: https://www.facebook.com/events/834428786709397/

9. Interlochen Christmas Lights

Randol Mill Rd and Westwood Dr.

December 15 – December 25

Voted “Texas Best” by fans of the Texas Country Reporter TV show, this year is the 42nd annual Interlochen Christmas Lights event. Featuring about 200 decorated homes designed by residents, the light show is a free event and runs nightly from 7 to 11 pm. Entrance to the event can be found and Westwood Dr and Randol Mill Road. Visit the website for a route map. Get the details.

10. Ballpark Tours Come See Santa

1000 Ballpark Way

Saturday, December 16

Is there a little baseball fan at your house? Santa is making a trip from the North Pole to visit Globe Life Park. Come visit Santa, enjoy sweet holiday treats, and take a guided tour of the ballpark. Doors open at 10am and tours leave every hour with the last tour leaving at 2pm. Get the details

TheParks at Arlington Mallhas partnered with Mattel to introduce a new holiday adventure that will be memorable for the entire family. Santa’s Toy Factory will open on Nov. 11 in the center court area of the shopping center.

To be honest every year I telling Santa (or grandma and grandpa) what to get the kids for Christmas and I don’t even know what they are! Not that Barbie®, Hot Wheels®, and Thomas & Friends™ or Santa ever disappoint (as all of them are always on the top of my kids’ Christmas list), but wouldn’t it be great to find out how a toy works or see if your kids really like it before it makes the FINAL CHRISTMAS LIST?

More about Santa’s Toy Factory:

Santa’s Toy Factory is designed to empower creativity through an interactive, immersive experience to meet Santa. Within the 1,600 square-foot space, young guests will have the opportunity to “test” new toys in Santa’s Factory before they get delivered to all the boys and girls on Christmas morning. After they “test” the toys, they visit different stations to digitally design, build and paint toys from Mattel’s iconic brands including Barbie®, Hot Wheels®, and Thomas & Friends™. The grand finale, of course, will be meeting Santa himself for photos and to share their holiday wish list.

“We are proud to be partnering with Mattel to bring this new, one-of-a-kind holiday concept to life,” said Lorie Lisius, general manager of Parks at Arlington. “We are always looking for ways to introduce new brands and experiences to our community and can’t wait to showcase Santa’s Toy Factory this holiday season. We know our guests will embrace it.”

The experience with Santa’s Toy Factory is free-of-charge and photo packages begin at $39.99. To make reservations to ensure quicker access, please click HERE. If you’d like more information, please visit www.VisitSantasToyFactory.com. Parks at Arlington is located at 3811 South Cooper and is home to a plethora of high-quality tenants including H&M, Aveda and Dickey’s BBQ.

Get Social with Parks at Arlington

Get Social with Mattel

Disclosure: I’ve partnered with Bloggin’ Mamas & GGP Parks at Arlington to share these free family events with my readers, and am being compensated for this partnership. All opinions expressed are my own.

It’s a North Texas tradition, the State Fair of Texas! But before you head to the fair, make sure you have your list of the best ways to save!

You know you’re gonna go, so why spend money on your admission when they make it so easy to save at the State Fair of Texas! With these tips you can take all your savings and spend them on another Fletcher’s Corny Dog or a trip on the Ferris Wheel! But make plans now so you don’t let the fair pass you by!

State Fair of Texas website:
Just going to the State Fair website instead of at the gate will save you $1.50 and you don’t have to wait in line! Plus if you sign up for the Big Tex insider

DART GoPass:
Go on your DART GoPASS® and you can your Dart pass to the fair and your State Fair tickets for just $16 and kid/seniors for $12 – all on your smartphone!

Kroger:
Go to Kroger and purchase your discounted tickets to the fair is $16.50 and a season pass for just $34.95 (and gives you a free one day bring a friend ticket too!)

McDonalds:
Any day make a trip to McDonald’s to grab a trayliner or a bag stuffer in the bag for $5 off admission and 1/2 kids tickets.

Dr. Pepper:
Any day after 5 pm, bring a Dr. Pepper can to the State Fair and get 1/2 admission!

Special Days to Take Note of for State Fair of Texas Savings!

TUESDAYSDr. Pepper
On Tuesdays (Oct, 3, 10 & 17) get $6 admission to the State Fair when you take an empty DP can!

And most rides are reduced on Tuesdays too (but not all rides.)

WEDNESDAY North Texas Food Bank
Get $4 admission to the fair on Wednesdays (Oct. 4, 11, and 18) when you bring 4 cans to donate to the North Texas Food Bank.

And Thursdays are Thrifty Thursdays! Save on your cotton candy and funnel cakes with mini versions and discounts from 2-7 coupons!)

Columbus Day, Oct. 9
And actually this year, my kids were given any day tickets so they could go on any day to the fare Monday – Friday. But of course, remember many schools are closed for Columbus Day so many families will be there that day! So plan accordingly!

First Responders Day, Oct 13
All first responders and up to three of their family members receive free admission on Oct. 13 to the fair. Make sure to bring your documentation. This is a special day!
VISUAL -(still: First Responders Day, Oct 13: First responders and three family members receive free admission.)

Featured photo credit: Kevin Brown/State Fair of Texas.

Headed to the fair? Then don’t miss Jackson’s recommendations on what to eat! (From the mouth of babes!)

Hyundai Hope on Wheels isn’t just giving money to help pediatric cancer, it’s a true hands-on organization that reminds us all, no matter our titles or roles, that Better Drives Us.

Thank you from the bottom of my heart to Hyundai Hope on Wheels® for inviting me to share this special experience and sharing their story with this sponsored post.

PC: Jaren Collins, JCI Creatives

A lot of big companies say they do a lot of good things. They fund big fundraising events, they wear shirts in support, and all those big impressionable things in the name corporate social responsibility. I know, I’ve worked with many of them to help organize them and sat at big fancy dinners gala to support the cause and it’s needed. But when you see the big guys sit side by side the little guys they are working to help, you realize that your purchases, small or big, DO make a big impact.

PC: Jaren Collins, CI Creatives

Last week I had the opportunity to attend the Hyundai Hope on Wheels Celebration of Life Dinner in Dallas. While there was a check presentation planned, there was so much more to this non-profit. In fact Hope on Wheels is one of the largest non-profit funders of pediatric cancer research in the country and has awarded more than $130 million towards childhood cancer since its inception in 1998.

PC: Jaren Collins, CI Creatives

That’s a pretty big commitment and it goes way beyond corporate social responsibility.

But what touched me the most were the other invitees in the room.

It was the dealers of North Texas (835 dealers actually contribute to the cause nationally)

It was the doctors and researchers that are doing the work for pediatric cancer at the many hospitals in and around Texas

It was the families and the KIDS that had pediatric cancer and their families that had been directly impacted by Hyundai Hope on Wheels.

The room was filled with the a full circle of how a simple purchase of a Hyundai can help research to find a cure for pediatric cancer.

It was amazing to see them together and interacting, seeing how working together makes a positive change. And how their motto “Better Drives Us” really comes to life.

PC: Jaren Collins, CI Creatives

One of the most moving moments of the night was listening to a mom describe the moment she heard her son’s diagnosis for a rare pediatric cancer. Hearing her personal, real story with all the emotions that took her over in front of all of us really put it into perspective. It put everything into perspective – and that it can happen to you. Any mom, any family, any child. In fact every 36 minutes a child is diagnosed with pediatric cancer. And unfortunately, you probably already have.

PC: Jaren Collins, CI Creatives

PC: Jaren Collins, CI Creatives

In fact every 36 minutes a child is diagnosed with pediatric cancer.

But the night was not over. There was still a special concert by The Voice’s Luke Wade who has been ambassador for Hope on Wheels across the country. He sang from the heart and brought the kids together for a moment on the stage. He also sat with the Hope on Wheels kids and their families.

But at the end of the night was the honestly the best part that made the biggest difference to me, the Handprint Ceremony.

The children and the doctors all placed their handprints on posters and on the doctors’ coats. It was truly moving to see all the smile of everyone making their own individual handprint. And each handprint’s story is distinctive in its own way. Whether it’s completing a round of chemo, celebrating a beautiful new head of hair or receiving a clean bill of health, one child’s milestone can be another’s symbol of hope. And these handprints serve as their symbol. These handprints will also be displayed on Hyundai cars around the country to share their mission and their hope.

PC: Jaren Collins, CI Creatives

PC: Jaren Collins, CI Creatives

PC: Jaren Collins, CI Creatives

How can you get involved and learn more about this great organization? Visit their uplifting website. Or connect with them on Facebook and Twitter to see more up to do work they’ve done and helped to make a change for pediatric cancer.

Need to cook up a new way to hang with friends or spice up work? You’ll find the recipe for fun at Teambuilding with Taste.

One of my first jobs just out of college was as an event planner. A dream job opportunity, I was able to travel and see places I’d never been while using my OCD skills to organize conferences, meetings and networking events for our company’s executives. Team building was always a component of each event and how creatively we could get our employees to work better when they were working together. After ropes courses and retreats of many different kinds, it got hard trying to come up with something new and cool.

So when I heard about Teambuilding with a Taste in Dallas, the event planner me was all ears. Everyone loves food and so many people love cooking, so the idea is such a cool way to get people motivated. Plus it was all the parts about my favorite Food Networking shows put into one – for a timed culinary challenge that results not just in an amazing meal and memories to last a lifetime.

To get things started off right, we enjoyed a glass of wine and met all the other people participating. Once we got things rolling, we broke into teams and were briefed by the lead chef in charge Chef Joey on our assignment (to be judged later): Best Global Appetizers! For our group we were given a Scotch Egg. One of my favorite English pub staples that I have always wondered how to make and now had the opportunity to learn first hand.

For the next two hours all the teams went to work, pulling together their recipes, food items and cooking. Thankfully, we had a chef to “assist” us with some pointers to make sure we didn’t go completely off course. And just like Iron Chef, you had a table full of ingredients to add your own twist to the recipe and a huge commercial kitchen to let you cook whatever you needed, how you needed. For me, it was a dream!

After the crazy scurry to deliver something edible and presentable, and even a last-minute ingredient addition, the clock buzzed and it was “hands off the table.”

Then we met back to present our dishes and serve them to the other teams. (That might have been the best part!)

While our team may not have won, we did have a great time, met some super friends and definitely had a cool experience to remember (as well as a full tummy.)

If you’re office or organization is looking for something to mix it up, Teambuilding with Taste is a first-rate experience. With both a location here in Dallas and Atlanta, you have several options for whatever fits your needs and budget!

Available Packages

Team Building With Taste – 3 Hours: $89 to $109 per person (Based on the menu selected.) Service fee, team building fee, alcohol and tax extra. Team minimum is 10.

Taste of Innovation – 3 hours: $79 per person (Secret ingredients) Service fee, team building fee, alcohol and tax extra. Team minimum is 10.

Cooking up Camaraderie – 2 hours: $69 per person (Global appetizers menu) Service fee, alcohol and tax extra. No team building program fee. Team minimum is 10.

Meet this Mama: Autumn Rose Reo

Get REAL Solutions for REAL Parents that Work! From recipes, things to do, parenting tips (and fails) and how to cope with everything in between, she'll share all the best ways to take on your (mama) challenges... https://www.mamachallenge.com/about/

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